Review:LadiesCase Idmirror for iPhone 4

Most iPhone 4 cases serve to protect the device and add some sort of personal flair. Although it has the base of a simple plastic shell, Idmirror ($30) from a company called LadiesCase adds a few components that make it stick out from the crowd. Two features define Idmirror, and both are in the name: an ID card holder and a mirror. This case strives for functionality and fashion, and partially succeeds.

Attached to the plastic iPhone 4-holding shell is a flip-open mirror that’s slightly larger than the iPhone 4’s screen. Think of it as a digital update to a makeup compact, hinged on one side and connected with a plastic clip on the other. Built into the back side of the mirror is a card compartment made for two or three credit cards or IDs; a thumb-sized hole allows the user to slide them out when needed. We can see how this could be useful, but the colored lid—available in red, purple, black, or pink—fell off multiple times during testing during various activities, including gentle drops and simply being transported in a bag, exposing unpainted splotches and seams on the interior of the plastic.

The shell itself covers both of the iPhone 4’s long sides, with an opening on the left for the volume buttons and side switch; it is large enough to accommodate both GSM and CDMA models. Coverage is along the top and bottom isn’t as good. Instead of dedicated holes for the different components, there are just long openings all the way across. On the upper left hand corner of the shell are two holes for those who want to attach the case to a string. It is worth noting that the rear camera is rather deeply recessed under the multiple layers of plastic, but not noticeably affected. The case comes with one piece of screen protector film, a bubble remover, and a polishing cloth.

There are certainly those who will appreciate Idmirror as a short-term replacement for a purse or wallet. The fact that the cover comes off easily could certainly lead to some problems though; we can definitely picture lost or just misplaced credit cards and driver’s licenses. Combine that with only so-so edge protection and we just can’t recommend this case. While the concept is pretty good, the execution is disappointing. As such, it deserves an “okay” or C rating.

Editors' Note: iLounge only reviews products in "final" form, but many companies now change their offerings - sometimes several times - after our reviews have been published.
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